DETECTIVES continue to hunt for a man from East Lancashire following a 'devastating' attack in Bolton.

Police have today re-released an image of a Burnley man they want to speak to in connection with an assault outside Night Bar Takeaway on Lee Lane, Horwich, Bolton shortly before 1am on December 30.

A group of three men confronted the victims - two men and a woman – and launched an unprovoked assault on the victims, police said.

One of the men was head-butted and the other man was punched to the floor, and while lying unconscious was kicked twice in the head.

The woman, while attempting to protect the unconscious man, was grabbed by one of the attackers and thrown to the ground.

A third man, who attempted to come to the aid of the two men and a woman, was also punched to the head.

Following an earlier police appeal, two people were identified and have been assisting officers with enquiries.

Police still want to speak to the man pictured about the incident, who is believed to be from Burnley.

Constable Rebecca Watson, of GMP’s Bolton Division, said: “Since our original appeal, officers have spoken to a number of people about this attack, but the identity of the pictured man remains outstanding.

“This incident saw three people subjected to a sustained, unprovoked assault when they were simply enjoying a night out

“While one of the victim’s lay prone on the floor, he was kicked in the head while unconscious – the effects of which could have been devastating.

“If you recognise the man pictured, please do not hesitate to get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 0085.